Symptoms and Risk Factors of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can be characterized by impaired attention, hyperactivity or excessive motor activity, and impulsivity, which is disproportionate to age and the most common behavioral disorder in children and adolescents. Hyperactivity or excessive motor activity means an individual may seem to move about constantly, including in conditions when it is not appropriate, or excessively fidget, tap, or talk. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder frequently occurs with specific and global developmental and learning problems that include autistic spectrum disorders, difficulties with speech and language, motor co-ordination, and reading, as well as with a range of psychiatric disorders, notably oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, and tic disorders. Long-term outcomes of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can be dangerous because they elevate the rates of serious accidental injury, medicine addiction, depression, school or occupational failure, and involvement in the criminal justice system. Hyperactivity or excessive motor activity can be characterized by being unable to concentrate on tasks, being unable to sit still, excessive physical movement, excessive talking, interrupting conversations, and acting without thinking. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is associated with impairments in cognitive, academic, familial, and finally occupational domains of daily life functioning. Impaired social functioning can manifest as rejection by peers and conflicts with other children and adults. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is commonly associated with highly familial disorder, environmental and other modifiable risk factors such as prenatal substance exposures, heavy metal and chemical exposures, nutritional factors, and lifestyle and psychosocial factors.